3 Signs Wear and Tear in Your Home and How to Fix Them

Over time, living on your property will show in small ways. Moving around the same spaces every day is bound to have an effect on the environment you occupy. Here are some examples of wear and tear that are likely to be in your home, and here is how you can fix them.

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1. Loose Hinges or Handles on Doors

Don’t Waste Time. Get Calling

After finding your handle is loose, it may only be a matter of time until it stops functioning altogether. You could always attempt to fix this yourself, but a smart idea may be to call a locksmith in order to avoid any further damage to your door. Though it may look like an outside problem, it may be an older mechanism from which the problem stems. A build-up of dirt or the natural ageing of the lock may be the case, both are entirely fixable by a locksmith who will see these kinds of problems daily. There are also different types of door handles, so you don’t want to risk an attempt at fixing a door handle which is not the model you have in your home. All can be easily solved by getting in contact with a locksmith to get it sorted out as soon as possible.

2. Scratched Wooden Flooring

Give Your Floor Its Shine Back

Walking on the same floor daily is bound to show physical effects. For this, you can easily remedy it if the scratches don’t appear too bad or stubborn. Modern materials that are used for flooring are far more durable than the likes that would be laid down in an old house; however, damage can still be done, of course. Fixing the scratches depends on the type of wear and tear on your floor. You will need a different remedy if the damage is heavier than minimal scratches. If the scratches are small but still noticeable, you can start by using a soft cloth and a floor cleaner to get rid of any dirt on the area. After this, dry the area and grab some steel wool, making sure not to rub against the grain of the wood but rather with it. Use sandpaper to buff the edges of the scratch, and then go in with floor wax, ensuring to leave it for ten minutes. To finish, gently buff the area with a soft cloth, and you should see the difference in your flooring. 

3. Mold In Your Bathroom 

Fix It As Soon As You Spot It

Mold can occur anywhere in the home after an event which causes moisture has occurred. Old homes can often pose health hazards like this due to the age of the house, but mold can be a problem in any property. The sooner you spot the outbreak of such, the sooner you can organize a mold remediation process. It can become incredibly harmful if left untreated and even cause serious health issues for those who inhabit your home. Services are there to provide professional and safe remedies to help get rid of the mold. Get in contact as soon as you spot it. 

8 Causes of Water Damage in Your Home – And How to Prevent Them

Water damage can be a huge headache and expensive problem to deal with. In fact, it is one of the most common forms of property damage. There are many causes of water damage, but some are more common than others. In this blog post, we will discuss eight of the most common causes of water damage in homes. We will also provide tips on how to prevent these problems from happening in your home.

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Leaky Roofs

One of the most common causes of water damage in homes is a leaking roof. If your roof is not properly maintained, it can develop leaks over time. These leaks can allow water to enter your home and cause damage to your walls, ceilings, and floors. To prevent this from happening, make sure to have your roof inspected regularly and repair any leaks as soon as they are discovered.

Clogged Gutters

Another common cause of water damage is clogged gutters. When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, they cannot properly drain water away from your home. This can cause water to back up and seep into your home through the roof or walls. To prevent this, make sure to clean your gutters regularly and remove any debris that has accumulated.

Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks are another common cause of water damage. These cracks can allow water to seep into your home and cause damage to the foundation itself. To prevent this from happening, make sure to have your foundation inspected regularly and repaired as soon as any cracks are discovered.

Poor Drainage

Poor drainage around your home can also lead to water damage. If water is not properly drained away from your home, it can pool around the foundation and cause damage. To prevent this, make sure to keep the area around your home free of debris and ensure that there is proper drainage in place.

Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks are another common cause of water damage. If the pipes in your home develop leaks, they can flood your home with water. To prevent this from happening, make sure to have your plumbing inspected regularly and repaired as soon as any leaks are discovered.

Sewer Backup

Another cause of water damage is a sewer backup. If the sewer system in your area backs up, it can send sewage and water into your home through the toilets, drains, and other openings. This can cause serious health risks as well as damage to your property. To prevent this from happening, make sure to have your sewer line inspected regularly and repaired as soon as any problems are discovered.

Ice Dams

Ice dams can also cause water damage in your home. These are formed when melting snow refreezes on your roof and creates a dam. This can cause water to back up and seep into your home, causing damage to your walls, ceilings, and floors. To prevent this from happening, make sure to remove any ice dams that form on your roof immediately.

Water Heater Leaks

Water heater leaks are another common cause of water damage. If the tank of your water heater begins to leak, it can flood your home with water. To prevent this from happening, make sure to have your water heater inspected regularly and repaired as soon as any leaks are discovered.

These are just some of the most common causes of water damage in homes. If you think that you might have a water damage problem in your home, it is important that you call in a professional. They can perform a water leak detection & repair test and determine the best course of action. Taking these steps can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your home is safe from water damage.

Create Your Own Backyard Oasis With These Tips

gardening tips

Creating your own backyard oasis is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With just a few simple tips, you can turn your yard into a relaxing retreat that you can enjoy with family and friends. Here are a few tips to get you started.

1) Choose The Right Plants

When selecting plants for your backyard oasis, choosing varieties that are low maintenance and can withstand the heat is essential. Some great options include succulents, cacti, and palm trees.

If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, you may also want to consider adding some water-loving plants to your oasis. Plants like water lilies and lotuses are beautiful additions that will help keep your yard looking lush and green. Finally, don’t forget to add some color! Adding a few colorful flowers or shrubs can really brighten up your space and make it feel more inviting.

2) Update Your Fence

If your fence looks a little worse for wear, give it a fresh coat of paint or stain. You can also replace the boards if necessary. If you want to get creative, you could add some decorative features to your fences, like trellis work or hanging planters. Either way, ensure your fence is in good condition to provide privacy and security for your backyard oasis.

Alternatively, you can also replace your fence with a new one. There are many different types and styles of fences to choose from, so you can find one that fits the aesthetic of your backyard oasis. If you want complete privacy, opt for a solid fence. If you want to let some light in and show off your beautiful backyard, go for a picket fence or something with gaps. A Fence company can help you with the installation if you are not confident in doing it yourself.

3) Invest In Some Outdoor Furniture

One of the most important things you will need for your backyard oasis is some comfortable outdoor furniture. Whether you want a couple of chairs and a small table or a full outdoor dining set, make sure you choose comfortable and inviting furniture. It should also be durable enough to withstand the elements. Outdoor furniture can be quite expensive, so it is essential to do your research before making any major purchases. You may also want to consider shopping at second-hand stores or online retailers to find the best deals.

4) Decorate With String Lights

One of the best ways to make your backyard oasis feel magical is to decorate it with string lights. You can hang them from trees, fences, or any other structures in your yard. String lights create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make you want to spend all your time outdoors.

If you want to take your backyard oasis up a notch, consider investing in some solar-powered string lights. That way, you won’t have to worry about running extension cords all over your yard. Solar-powered string lights are also great for the environment since they don’t use any electricity.

These are just a few tips to help you create the perfect backyard oasis. With a little planning and effort, you can turn your yard into a private retreat you will never want to leave.

 

4 Health Hazards Posed by Old Homes and How to Remedy Them

There’s nothing quite like the charm of an old home. With their high ceilings, large windows, and spacious rooms, they offer a unique character that newer homes just can’t replicate. However, while these older homes may be charming, they often come with a price tag: health hazards. From lead paint to asbestos to vermin infestations, old homes can pose a serious threat to your health if not remedied. This blog post will discuss four of the most common health hazards posed by old homes and how you can remedy them.

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Lead Paint

One of the most common health hazards posed by old homes is lead paint. Lead paint was used extensively in homes built back in the day and can be found on walls, ceilings, doors, and windows. If ingested or inhaled, lead paint can cause serious health problems, including brain damage, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. The best way to remediate lead paint is to have a professional come in and remove it. 

A certified lead abatement contractor will use containment and negative air pressure to prevent lead dust from spreading during the removal process. Once the lead paint has been removed, the area will need to be repainted with safe, lead-free paint.

Asbestos

Asbestos is another common health hazard found in older homes. Asbestos was used extensively in construction and insulation materials prior to the 1980s and can be found in a variety of places in an old house, including flooring, pipes, siding, and insulation. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can cause a number of severe health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma cancer. If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, it’s important to have it tested and removed by a professional.

Vermin Infestations

Another common health hazard posed by old homes is a vermin infestation. Mice, rats, cockroaches, and other pests can damage not only your home but also spread diseases. If you suspect that you have a vermin problem, it’s important to call in a professional exterminator. They will be able to identify the type of pests present and develop a plan to get rid of them. Once the pests are gone, you’ll need to take steps to prevent them from returning. This may include sealing up cracks and holes in your home, removing food sources, and using traps or baits.

Mold

Mold is another common health hazard found in old homes. Mold can grow on damp or wet surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, floors, and pipes. Inhaling mold spores can cause a number of respiratory problems, including asthma attacks, bronchitis, and allergic reactions. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, it’s crucial to call in a professional remediation company. 

In conclusion, old homes can pose a serious threat to your health if not remedied. This blog post has discussed four of the most common health hazards posed by old houses and how you can fix them. Taking these steps will help protect you and your family from the serious health risks posed by old homes and keep you and your family safe and happy for years to come.

5 Home Disasters And How To Recover From Them

repairs after disasters flooding tornadoes

In the wake of a disaster, many of us are too shaken up to think about recovery. However, it could be important to action quickly – damage left unrepaired could lead to more damage. So just what recovery steps should you take? Below are 5 home disasters that occur across the US and how to recover from them. 

Burglary

There are over 1 million burglaries committed in the US each year. On top of stealing valuable possessions, burglars can often cause huge amounts of damage in the process. 

While you may be eager to replace the stolen items and make these repairs, it’s important to not touch anything initially. The first thing you should do is to report the crime to the police. Leave everything where it is so that they can take any evidence they may need. Police will be able to advise you on how to secure your home while waiting for repairs. 

The second thing you should do is to notify your insurer. It could also be worth taking pictures of the scene so that you have evidence to send to your insurer. You can then make a claim and hopefully get enough compensation to pay for essential repairs and replacements.

If your home isn’t covered by insurance, you will have to pay for repairs and replacements yourself. Be wary that there may be local charities that can help to provide funding.

Many homes that are burgled end up being targeted again. By investing in security measures such as burglar alarms, security cameras, exterior lighting and strong locks you may be able to prevent yourself from being a victim twice. 

Flooding

In 2021 alone, 15 millions homes across America were affected by natural disasters. Floods are one of the biggest and most devastating natural disasters, causing huge amounts of damage to property and possessions. They can often be a knock-on effect of hurricanes, but can also be caused simply by excess rainfall. Plumbing disasters can also often lead to floods. 

Recovering from a flood is a gradual process. First, you must make sure that your home is safe. Turn off the gas and electricity at the mains if you can reach the switches. You may need to find temporary accommodation for a while until your home is cleared up as there may be bacteria from sewerage and mold everywhere. 

You should then photograph the damage and get in touch with your insurer if you have flood cover. If you cannot make an insurance claim, there could be grants or loans that you can look into to pay for recovery.

There are companies that can help carry out a flooding clean up for you. This should be done as soon as possible to prevent further damage and should include first drying out your home and then removing anything that is damaged and unsalvageable. You can then look into making necessary repairs and replacing any important items that were damaged by the flood.

If you live in a high-risk flood zone, it could be important to protect your home against possible future floods. Consider looking into either wet floodproofing or dry floodproofing. The latter involves keeping all water out of your home, while the former allows water into your home but minimizes damage. 

Fire

Over 350,000 house fires occur every year in the US. While some of these fires are able to be put out before they cause much damage, others can cause significant damage.

It is recommended that you move out of your home following a fire, as it may not be safe. A fire inspector will be able to assess the damage and determine whether your home is safe to still live in and what repairs are needed. Some homes may not be salvageable – in which case you may have no choice but to permanently move out or rebuild your home from scratch. 

You should call your insurer straight away and send them any photo evidence that they may need. If you do not have insurance, consider looking into other types of funding such as loans and grants for fire recovery

There are specialist fire restoration companies that can help restore your home. Any personal possessions damaged by the fire may need to be thrown out and replaced. 

Earthquake

Earthquakes occur mainly across the west of the US. The most severe ones can cause huge amounts of damage that can be very costly to recover from.

Following an earthquake, you should get your home inspected to make sure that it is safe. You should then invest in any repairs that may need to be made.

If you are insured, make sure to notify your insurer beforehand and make a claim before committing to any repairs. If you are not covered by insurance, there is other financial support out there for earthquake victims. 

It is important that you invest in some earthquake-proofing home improvements to protect your property against future possible earthquakes. Securing furniture, cabinets, appliances and doors can often help to prevent these items getting damaged.

Tornado

Tornadoes are most commonly found across the Great Plains. They cause huge amounts of damage to homes each year.

If your home is directly in the path of a tornado, there is a high chance that it could be completely wiped out. However, not all tornadoes cause such extensive damage and repairs may be necessary. You should get your home inspected to work out the extent of the damage and whether your home is salvageable.

Tornado damage is a form of storm damage and may be covered by your insurer. Notify your insurer as soon as possible, take pictures of your home and make a claim.

If you do not have insurance, there may be other funding that you can look into. A number of charities provide relief for those that have experienced storm damage. Look into these types of charities.

It could be important to protect your home against future tornadoes. Storm shutters, brace garage doors and reinforced roof are some of the improvements you can make. 

Things To Add To Your Dream Kitchen

dream kitchen

Everybody has a perfect kitchen in their minds, and if you’re like most people, you’re always adding new items to your mental wish list. However, there might be a few things you missed.

Equipment Garage 

Are you tired of having so many gadgets cluttering up your counters and room? Make sure to include a closet made to house these products in an accessible but hidden location when designing your ideal kitchen. The cabinet must have enough room to fit even your blender inside without running out of room.

Unique Cabinets 

Speaking of cabinets, take it a step further and customize every one of them to make the most of your available space. The perfect kitchen will have the appropriate cupboards for it, providing space for a window or door as needed so you have a place to keep whatever you desire. 

A deep two-sink basin 

Is there ever enough space in the sink? The past says no! You won’t regret choosing a deeper sink than usual. Farmhouse sinks are one alternative available on the market, but if you want traditional metal, go for a double sink so you have more space than the typical one.

Touch-Sensitive Faucet 

This is essential if you cook often. With these useful models, you simply need to bump them with any naked part of your body, such as the back of your hand, your elbow, etc. It can get messy when your hands are coated with dough and you need to turn on the faucet, but It will automatically turn on the faucet so you may wash your hands without making a mess all over.

A pot filler 

The pot-filler, a tap that swings out over the stove to fill a pot where it is on the burner, is yet another indispensable cooking tool. It’s an easy feature to add and saves time and effort because you don’t have to carry a heavy pot of splashing liquid to the burner. The fact that it makes your life easier more than makes up for that, though.

Counter space 

Utilizing every square inch of space should be your main priority when designing your ideal kitchen, with a special attention to work surfaces and countertops. It’s easy to underestimate how much counter space you’ll need for anything from cooking to exhibiting gadgets and appliances to working from home to enjoying meals with your loved ones, so be sure to think through all of your potential uses for your worktops.

Lighting is vitally important 

In any space, but notably the kitchen, lighting is crucial. This is due to the fact that it serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. To make food preparation easier, think about installing hidden spotlights beneath your wall cabinets, statement lights over your kitchen island that you can dim to suit the mood you want to set, and even plinth lights that run along the base of your floor cabinets to softly light up your kitchen walkways at night. Even adding lamps to your kitchen countertops is a way to alter the ambiance.

How to Prepare Your Home for Fall

Fall is a beautiful season to enjoy in your home. The vibrant colors of leaves on the trees, cool weather, and cozy sweaters all make it the perfect time to curl up with a book, light some candles, and take in your home. With just a few minor adjustments, you can transform your home into a little nest perfect for cuddling with the ones you love this fall. How do you get ready for fall? Preparing your home for the fall season doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. You can ease into fall by making simple changes that significantly impact your home.

fall foliage

Service Your HVAC

First and foremost, your heating and cooling system will be the foundation of your home comfort during fall. Check your HVAC system for any issues, such as clogs, broken parts, or other malfunctions. If you find problems, it is best to fix them as soon as possible. Getting hvac maintenance booked in before the temperatures drop and demand for repairs grows can help you to save money on costs this fall and ensure your system is completely ready for winter.

 

Check Insulation Levels

As the weather changes from warm to cool, it’s essential to ensure your home stays comfortable. You may need to add more insulation if you live in an older home. You can add an extra layer of batting or fiberglass in your attic or look at newer insulation methods such as spray foam insulation. You can check your insulation levels to see where to add or remove insulation.

 

Inspect Windows & Doors For Drafts

Another important aspect of keeping your home comfortable is ensuring no drafts come in through your windows or doors. Check your windows for drafts, including the ones in your entries. If you find that you have a draft, you can either add weather stripping or replace the old door or window with a new one. 

 

Clean Roof and Guttering

Finally, clean your roof and gutters as the leaves fall to prevent clogs that could cause damage. If you are in an area with heavy leaf fall, you will want to clean your roof and gutters more frequently. When cleaning your roof and gutters, you can use a power washer to eliminate most leaves, pine needles, and other debris. Be careful not to use too much water to clean your roof and gutters as it could cause water to back into your home.

 

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare your home for fall, it is time to start! You can do many things to prepare your home for fall, from adding cozier decor and accessories such as blankets, candles, cushions, and so on to deep cleaning your home to prepare for the colder weather. However, making sure you look at some bigger, more vital parts of your home can help you to avoid any breakdowns or the need for emergency repairs. So take the time to check over the things mentioned in this post, and you can relax knowing your home is ready for fall.

Creating Privacy in and Around Your Home

restored home

Everyone wants their home to be private. It’s a place of sanctuary where you want to enjoy time on your own or with your family. Even if you invite guests in sometimes, you don’t want random people to peek in at what you’re doing while you’re at home. Fortunately, there are ways you can create privacy in your home and ensure you can enjoy it as you want to. Making some changes to both the interior and exterior of your home can help you to make your home more private. Take a look at these tips for creating privacy in and around your home.

 

Soundproof Your Home

 

Soundproofing your home is one of the best ways you can make it more private. Good soundproofing shuts out sound from outside but it also keeps sound in your home. So not only are you blocking out external noise, but you’re also preventing neighbors or passersby from hearing your conversations and other activities. You can soundproof your home in a number of ways. Outside, you can use fencing or plants to create a more soundproof space. Inside, you can consider your windows and doors to prevent sound from traveling between indoors and outdoors.

 

Protect the Perimeter

 

The perimeter of your home is important to think about if you want to create more privacy. If you protect the perimeter, you can prevent people from being nosy and create a private space that you can enjoy without worrying about others disturbing you. A fence or wall is a good option for creating privacy. You could consider automatic access gate installation to ensure you still have good access to your home. A gate will provide security while also making sure you’re still able to come and go as you please. Automatic gates make it easier to get in and out with your car too.

 

Prevent Neighbors Looking In

 

Worrying about your neighbors peering into your home can prevent you from enjoying it properly. They could see in when walking past or standing outside, or they might be able to look through your windows or down onto your backyard from the upper levels of their own homes. If you want to stop neighbors from looking into your home, you could use tinting or frosting on windows. Light window dressings can also create privacy while still letting light through. In your backyard, consider using your landscaping and hardscaping to create more privacy from above.

 

Use Security Tech

 

Using security technology can also help to create more privacy in your home. It can discourage people from getting too close so that you can keep your home to yourself. Installing a security camera could be a good idea if you want to make your home more private. Get a camera that will save the footage to the cloud so you can easily review it or check on it when you’re away from home.

Focus on creating privacy in and around your home and you can improve your enjoyment of your property whenever you’re home.